This lesson describes current and future satellites sensors and products used for monitoring the fire cycle, with an emphasis on polar-orbiting satellites. Product information is presented in the context of the fire lifecycle: from assessing the pre- and post-fire environment to detecting and monitoring active fires, smoke, and aerosols. Product information is also consolidated in the Fire Product Suite. The lesson concludes with an interactive fire case study, supplemented with observations from a National Weather Service trainer/forecaster who experienced the fire.

The lesson is intended for the wide range of users involved with wildfire detection and monitoring, from land use managers and hydrologists to weather forecasters and researchers. Note that this lesson is an update to the original 2007 version and includes new information on the VIIRS and upcoming GOES-R sensors and their fire-related applications.

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